What are the different types of stone for countertops? And what's the best for a kitchen? And why?

Mike
by Mike
  5 answers
  • Stephen B Stephen B on Mar 29, 2011
    Mike, Types: Laminate, solid surface (Corian & the like), ceramic or stone tile, quartz, granite tile, limestone, & slab granite. The best for a Kitchen (in my opinion as a builder) is slab granite. Why? Because it looks the best, lasts the longest with very little maintenance, and brings the most value back to you at resale.
  • Mike, There are several types of countertops, Granite, Quartz, Butcher block, stainless steel, laminate and Corian etc. The best how ever is Granite because it brings value to your home and also is beautiful to look at. Your can choose Quartz if you are looking for low maintenance, Corian and Laminate for a low cost countertops and Butcher block and Stainless Steel for a much contemporary look.
  • Bottega Stone Bottega Stone on Jun 20, 2011
    I agree with Yamini and Stephen. The natural products like stone and butcher block are what looks and feel better 5-10 years down the road. So not only for resale but for you to enjoy cooking, baking, entertaining. Stone not only comes in a variety of colors and patterns, we are selling much more matte and textured stones lately. They work great for a kitchen that wants to feel not so shiny new and instead used - the illusion of a natural patina. Also, in more modern design it blends into the the natural look better.
  • The contractors can give you a great heads up on the different looks and designs but I can add: be sure you understand the maintenance and use issues with each. You asked about stone specifically. You can't cut on it (you may ruin the finish), some types of stone stain and you dont want to put hot items on some types (probably not any). So you want to be sure to ask and understand these types of issues in setting your expections. Also be sure to ask about picking out your slab. For natural stones, small samples may not display the full nuance and beauty of some stones.
  • Mike, Great info from all four contributors. I'd go with granite or quartz. Find the pattern/color you like the best and go for it. Differences between the two are minimal...they are both great tops for a kitchen. Tim